tick
noun
a slight, sharp, recurring click, tap, or beat, as of a clock.
was ticking
-
past progressiveof tick.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"He was ticking over and training," Charles said.
From BBC ● May 7, 2026
The clock was ticking for Phillip Dressel to make a decision that could mean life-changing money.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 20, 2026
Anyone trapped with their head under the surface is likely going to be starved for oxygen, so the clock was ticking.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 6, 2026
The sailors were taken into custody, but the clock was ticking: Officials in Canberra had decreed that barring the discovery of evidence that would allow extradition, they could hold the men for only 24 hours.
From Slate ● Jul. 22, 2025
Returning to Washington to begin our final year in the White House, we knew the clock was ticking now in earnest.
From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama
